The HUNTS Course was established in 1987, a joint venture between the NZ Deerstalkers’ Association and the NZ Mountain Safety Council.

The HUNTS Course is aimed at new comers to the sport of hunting or older shooters, who are keen to improve their bushcraft and hunting skills. Trainees must be at least 16 years old preferably have a current firearms licence, their own centre fire rifle, suitable clothing and equipment as well as a reasonable level of fitness. Membership of NZDA is also mandatory to take advantage of their public liability insurance and facilities. The North Canterbury Branch offers courses from time to time. Inquiries are welcome.

The course is designed to increase competence and confidence in basic bushcraft and hunting skills, to enable participants to successfully complete 1 to 2 day hunting trip, into areas below the timber line.

These skills include, but are not limited to:

• Behaving in an ethical and environmentally friendly manner.• Knowing how to plan a trip and reduce potential risks.• Knowing the correct equipment and food to carry.• Applying sound bushcraft, navigation and river crossing methods.• Understanding rifle safety, ballistics and marksmanship.• Identifying and understanding the behaviour of game animals.• Apply reliable hunting and shooting techniques.• Learning how to skin and butcher a deer and trophy preparation.• Learning survival techniques and basic first aid.

The dates for the 2019 HUNTS course are yet to be confirmed but will possibly be: